RAILROAD FREIGHT TARIFF.
Mr. SKINNER moved to reconsider the vote by which the bill [[H. R. 138--see page 61 of: these Reports] regulating charges of railroads, was passed. He said: There has been considerable talk over the bill and it is thoroughly understood. The reason I make this motion is because there was some misunderstanding in reference to its construction. The bill provides that Companies shall not charge a greater price for carrying freight a short distance than it does for a greater distance. The only question is whether the word "price" has any reference to rates. Some admit that this bill does not apply to rates, while others contend that it does. I submitted this bill to a railroad man this forenoon. His opinion as to the construction of the words "price" and "rates' is that they are synonomous terms, but by the wording of the bill it is questioned whether a Railroad Company can charge more for hauling a larger amount of freight a short distance than a small amount a long distance.
The SPEAKER--The bill is in the Senate and can only be returned by a demand of the House.
Mr. SKINNER--Then I withdraw my motion to reconsider.
